Sony admits malicious attacks brought down PlayStation Network

Technology giant Sony’s PlayStation division has admitted an “illegal intrusion” and “compromise of personal information” on its systems has caused the current ongoing outage of the PlayStation Network and Qriocity services.

It is believed more than 77m users have been affected by the attack which has caused the PlayStation Network to be closed down for almost a week at this stage.

“These malicious actions have also had an impact on your ability to enjoy the services provided by PlayStation Network and Qriocity, including online gaming and online access to music, movies, sports and TV shows,” Patrick Seybold, senior director of corporate communications and social media at PlayStation said on the official PlayStation blog.

“We have a clear path to have PlayStation Network and Qriocity systems back online, and expect to restore some services within a week. We’re working day and night to ensure it is done as quickly as possible.”

Seybold said an email has been sent to registered account holders explaining the nature of the attack.

As a result of the attack, PlayStation has temporarily turned off PlayStation Network and Qriocity services and has engaged an outside security firm to conduct a complete investigation into what has happened.

It is rebuilding its system with greater defences.

There has been speculation that hackers launched a DDoS attack on Sony’s network that brought it down for all users of PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable devices looking to play multiplayer games and download movie, TV and music content.